ABV, or Already Been Vaped, also known as AVB (Already Vaped Bud), represents the cannabis that has already undergone vaporization. Instead of discarding it, many cannabis enthusiasts explore using ABV to create edibles. But the crucial question remains: does ABV actually work for edibles? Let’s delve deep into the science, effects, and best practices of utilizing ABV to craft potent and enjoyable edibles.
Understanding ABV: What It Is and Its Composition
ABV is essentially cannabis that has been heated to a point where cannabinoids like THC and CBD are vaporized and inhaled. The remaining plant material isn’t entirely devoid of these compounds. The degree of decarboxylation achieved during vaporization makes ABV a viable ingredient for edibles.
The color of ABV can vary from light golden-brown to dark, almost burnt, depending on factors such as the temperature of the vaporizer and the duration of the vaping session. A lighter color generally indicates that more cannabinoids are retained, while darker ABV suggests a more thorough extraction.
The composition of ABV varies significantly. The original potency of the cannabis used, the temperature and duration of vaporization, and the type of vaporizer all play a role. Even though some cannabinoids are lost during vaping, a significant amount often remains, especially if lower temperatures were used.
The Science Behind ABV Edibles: Decarboxylation and Bioavailability
To understand how ABV works in edibles, it’s crucial to grasp the concept of decarboxylation. Decarboxylation is the process of heating cannabis to convert non-psychoactive cannabinoids like THCA and CBDA into their active forms, THC and CBD.
When you vaporize cannabis, you’re essentially decarboxylating it to some extent. This is why ABV can be used directly in edibles without needing to bake it further for decarboxylation (though some people still do).
When ingested, THC is metabolized by the liver into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent and longer-lasting psychoactive compound compared to inhaled THC. This explains why edibles often produce a different and more intense experience than smoking or vaping.
The bioavailability of cannabinoids in edibles is also affected by the presence of fats. Cannabinoids are lipophilic, meaning they dissolve in fats. Incorporating ABV into recipes containing butter, oil, or other fats enhances the absorption of cannabinoids into the bloodstream.
Factors Affecting the Potency of ABV Edibles
Several factors influence the potency of ABV edibles, including the type of cannabis used, the vaporization process, and the preparation of the edible. It is essential to consider these elements for predictable and enjoyable results.
Strain and Original Potency
The potency of the original cannabis flower significantly impacts the final potency of ABV. Strains with higher THC or CBD levels will naturally result in ABV with more residual cannabinoids.
Vaporization Temperature and Duration
Lower vaporization temperatures preserve more cannabinoids, while higher temperatures lead to a more thorough extraction. Longer vaporization sessions also reduce the cannabinoid content. Keep in mind that lower temps are better for retaining cannabinoids in your ABV.
Storage of ABV
Proper storage of ABV is crucial to prevent degradation of cannabinoids. Store ABV in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to minimize oxidation and maintain potency.
Edible Recipe and Preparation
The recipe used and the preparation method also influence potency. Recipes with higher fat content enhance bioavailability, while improper mixing or heating can degrade cannabinoids.
How to Use ABV in Edibles: Methods and Recipes
There are various methods to incorporate ABV into edibles, ranging from simple additions to more elaborate infusions. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages in terms of convenience, potency, and flavor.
Direct Consumption
The simplest method is to directly consume ABV. This can be done by sprinkling it on food or mixing it into yogurt or smoothies. However, the taste of ABV can be strong and earthy, which some people find unpleasant.
ABV Infusions: Oil, Butter, and Alcohol
Infusing ABV into oil, butter, or alcohol extracts the remaining cannabinoids into a more palatable medium. These infusions can then be used in various recipes.
- Oil Infusion: Combine ABV with coconut oil, olive oil, or another cooking oil in a saucepan or slow cooker. Heat gently for several hours, then strain the oil through cheesecloth.
- Butter Infusion: Similar to oil infusion, but using butter as the solvent. This method is ideal for baked goods.
- Alcohol Tincture: Soak ABV in high-proof alcohol for several weeks, shaking occasionally. Strain the mixture and evaporate the alcohol to create a concentrated tincture.
Capsules
ABV can be put directly into capsules. This removes the taste factor completely and is good for controlled dosing.
Water Curing ABV
Water curing is a method to reduce the unpleasant taste of ABV. Place ABV in a jar or container filled with water. Change the water daily for several days until the water runs clear. This process removes water-soluble compounds that contribute to the bitter taste. Once water-cured, dry the ABV thoroughly before using it in edibles. Water curing can reduce the taste but may also slightly reduce potency.
Dosage and Safety Considerations for ABV Edibles
Dosage is paramount when it comes to edibles, especially with ABV, where the potency can be variable. Start low and go slow is the cardinal rule.
Because the effects of edibles take longer to manifest compared to inhalation, it’s easy to overconsume. Wait at least two hours before taking another dose, and be patient. The intensity and duration of the effects can vary significantly from person to person.
Start with a small dose, such as 5-10mg of THC (if you can estimate the THC content of your ABV) and increase gradually in subsequent sessions until you find your optimal dose. Always err on the side of caution, especially if you are new to edibles or have a low tolerance.
If you experience anxiety, paranoia, or other adverse effects, stay calm, drink water, and try to relax. The effects will eventually subside.
Consider keeping track of your dosage and the effects you experience to fine-tune your future edible adventures.
The Pros and Cons of Using ABV for Edibles
Using ABV for edibles has several advantages and disadvantages compared to using fresh cannabis flower. Weighing these factors can help you decide if ABV edibles are the right choice for you.
Pros:
- Cost-effective: ABV is essentially free, as it’s a byproduct of vaping.
- Decarboxylated: ABV is already partially or fully decarboxylated, simplifying the preparation process.
- Reduced smell: ABV generally has a less pungent odor than fresh cannabis, making it more discreet to work with.
- Sustainability: Repurposing ABV reduces waste and promotes sustainable consumption.
Cons:
- Variable potency: The potency of ABV can vary widely, making it challenging to dose accurately.
- Earthy taste: ABV often has a strong, earthy taste that can be unpleasant in edibles.
- Lower potency: ABV is inherently less potent than fresh cannabis flower.
Tips for Making the Best ABV Edibles
Here are some tips to help you make the most of your ABV edibles and minimize potential downsides:
- Water cure ABV: To reduce the unpleasant taste.
- Use high-fat recipes: To enhance cannabinoid absorption.
- Grind ABV finely: To increase surface area and improve extraction.
- Start with a low dose: To avoid overconsumption.
- Use a slow cooker: For gentle and consistent infusion.
- Store ABV properly: To maintain potency.
- Experiment with flavors: To mask the taste of ABV.
- Keep track of dosages: To fine-tune your edible experiences.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use ABV for edibles comes down to personal preference. With careful preparation and consideration for dosage, ABV can be a valuable resource for creating potent and cost-effective edibles.
FAQ 1: What is ABV and why can it be used in edibles?
ABV, or Already Been Vaped cannabis, is the leftover plant material after you’ve vaporized dry herb. Vaporization heats the cannabis to a temperature that releases cannabinoids like THC and CBD without burning the plant matter, leaving behind ABV that still contains residual cannabinoids, albeit in lower concentrations than the original flower. The color of ABV typically ranges from light to dark brown, depending on the vaping temperature and duration.
The reason ABV can be used in edibles is due to the presence of these remaining cannabinoids. While some cannabinoids have already been vaporized, enough remain to produce psychoactive or therapeutic effects when consumed. Because ABV has already been decarboxylated during the vaping process, it’s ready to be directly ingested without further heating, making it ideal for easy edible creation.
FAQ 2: How potent are edibles made with ABV compared to edibles made with fresh cannabis?
Edibles made with ABV are generally less potent than those made with fresh, unvaped cannabis. The initial vaping process reduces the cannabinoid content, so the remaining THC and CBD levels are significantly lower. The exact potency will vary depending on factors like the quality of the original cannabis, the vaporization temperature, and the duration of the vaping session.
Predicting the precise potency of ABV edibles can be challenging, as these variables make it difficult to accurately measure the remaining cannabinoid content. It is crucial to start with a low dose to gauge your individual sensitivity and avoid overconsumption. Experienced users often recommend beginning with 0.25 to 0.5 grams of ABV and adjusting the dosage in subsequent batches.
FAQ 3: Does the temperature I vape at affect the potency of ABV for edibles?
Yes, the temperature at which you vape cannabis significantly affects the potency of the resulting ABV when used in edibles. Higher vaping temperatures will extract more cannabinoids during the vaping process, leading to ABV with lower cannabinoid content. Lower vaping temperatures will leave more cannabinoids behind in the ABV, making it more potent for edible use.
Consequently, individuals who prefer a less intense vaping experience and vape at lower temperatures will likely have more potent ABV for edibles compared to those who regularly vape at higher temperatures. Keeping track of your typical vaping temperature can help you estimate the potential strength of your ABV edibles and adjust your recipes accordingly.
FAQ 4: How do I use ABV in edibles? Do I need to decarb it again?
One of the biggest advantages of using ABV in edibles is that it doesn’t require further decarboxylation. The vaping process itself decarboxylates the cannabis, activating the THC and CBD. This means you can directly incorporate ABV into your chosen recipes without any additional heating steps.
You can infuse ABV into fats like butter or oil, or directly incorporate the ABV into recipes like brownies, cookies, or even capsules. A common technique is to simmer ABV in a fat of your choice (coconut oil, butter, olive oil) for a few hours, then strain out the plant matter. This infused fat can then be used in your favorite edible recipes, allowing you to create a wide range of infused goods.
FAQ 5: What are some tips for improving the taste of ABV edibles?
ABV often has a distinct, somewhat burnt or toasted flavor that can be undesirable in edibles. Several strategies can help mask or reduce this flavor. Water curing is a popular method where ABV is soaked in water, which is changed several times over a few days, to remove water-soluble compounds that contribute to the unpleasant taste.
Another effective technique is to use strong flavors in your edible recipes that complement or overpower the ABV taste. Chocolate, peanut butter, coffee, and strong spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can all help mask the flavor of ABV. Additionally, using high-quality ingredients and carefully balancing the flavors in your recipe will improve the overall taste experience.
FAQ 6: What are the best methods for storing ABV until I’m ready to use it in edibles?
Proper storage of ABV is essential to maintain its quality and prevent degradation of cannabinoids. The best method is to store ABV in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place. This minimizes exposure to oxygen, light, heat, and humidity, all of which can degrade cannabinoids and reduce potency.
A mason jar or vacuum-sealed bag works well for storage. Keeping the ABV in a refrigerator can further extend its shelf life, but ensure the container is airtight to prevent moisture absorption. Avoid storing ABV in areas with significant temperature fluctuations, as this can accelerate degradation.
FAQ 7: Are there any potential downsides or risks to using ABV in edibles?
While using ABV in edibles is a cost-effective and resourceful approach, there are potential downsides to consider. One primary concern is the unpredictable potency, as the cannabinoid content in ABV can vary significantly. This makes it difficult to accurately dose edibles, potentially leading to overconsumption and unwanted effects.
Another risk is the potential for consuming contaminants or mold if the ABV was not properly stored. Furthermore, the flavor of ABV can be off-putting to some, even with techniques to mask it. Always start with small doses and carefully assess the effects before consuming larger amounts. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those sensitive to cannabis should consult with a healthcare professional before using ABV edibles.